Mahe holidays - Friendly, beautiful and laidback

The Seychelles' largest island is sure to entice you

Mahé, a gorgeous island with huge jungle-clad mountains and white sand beaches, is the largest and most populous island in the Seychelles – 90% of Seychellois locals live in this beautiful destination. The island embodies the Seychelles’ ambience of relaxation, but also offers a slightly livelier vibe - especially along its most popular beaches in the northwest. Home to a tourism school, Seychelles’ international airport, the capital city of Victoria and the Beau Vallon Jetty, the Seychelles really come to life here – you really experience a friendly, community feel, and discover how the locals live. If you want to experience the archipelago’s authentic culture and heritage, Mahé is the place to go.

There are plenty of 5* resorts and hotels here, but also a fair few properties that are perfect for families. The water sports, local shops and restaurants will be sure to keep the whole family entertained, and the stunning beaches here really are the perfect backdrop to a paradise holiday. No matter what kind of holiday you’re looking for – whether it’s luxury or family fun – Mahé will be sure to have a hotel to suit your taste. Whereas many of Seychelles’ properties and islands adopt a ‘stay at home’ atmosphere, in Mahé there’s a lot more to do outside of your hotel. 

The capital city, Victoria, is a lot calmer and quieter than your typical city, and Saturday mornings are really the only time where it gets a tiny bit more hectic – but definitely not by London’s standards. There are many attractions you won’t want to miss while you’re here – look out for the little statue based on Big Ben, as well as the Victoria National Museum of History, and a small gallery showcasing local artist Georges Camille’s work. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market is a great way to while away an afternoon too – it’s a vibrant market full of fresh fish and fruit produced by Mahé’s farmers and fishermen.

Beau Vallon beach is probably one of the most popular beaches on Mahé, and is close by to a number of Mahé’s best hotels. It’s almost unbelievably crystal clear waters and vivid coral reefs offer one of the Seychelles’ best spots for diving and snorkelling, whilst locals sit under tall takamaka trees and sell small souvenirs and food. There are plenty of restaurants along this bay offering a taste of authentic cuisine, including the sumptuous Creole and seafood menu at La Plage, and the ever popular pizzeria Baobab – so there’s no need to just stay in your hotel for lunch or dinner.

Mahé is also home to a beautiful National Park – Morne Seychelles National Park is a luscious jungle full of indigenous flora and fauna, offering wonderful nature trails and one of the best views of the Seychelles, especially at the summit of Morne Blanc. Mahé’s tallest peak, Morne Mountain, steals the show though – it’ll be the first thing you notice once you step out of the airport thanks to its bright green stature.

From its rich culture, heritage and friendly locals, to traditional Creole restaurants and incredible nature - Mahé is certainly the island to visit if you want to discover the authentic Seychelles lifestyle.

Why visit Mahe?

• A chance to see the more authentic life in the Seychelles
• The proximity to such impressive natural beauty means you can easily go on hikes and tours
• There are over 65 stunning beaches that the Seychelles are famous for worldwide
• Explore Eden Island, with its luxurious houses, restaurants and bars
• The capital city of Victoria is full of fascinating culture and heritage

Inspired? Tropical Sky also arranges Indian Ocean holidays in other Seychelles destinations including Praslin, Mahe, La Digue and the Private and Smaller Islands.